Increased levels of adiponectin and resistin in alcohol dependence--possible link to craving.

Recent studies suggested a role of appetite regulating peptides like leptin and ghrelin in alcohol dependence and particularly in the neurobiology of alcohol craving. Aim of the present study was to investigate alterations of the adipocytokines adiponectin and resistin in alcohol-dependent patients. We analyzed a sample of 88 patients at admission for alcohol detoxification and after 1 week of withdrawal treatment in comparison to 89 healthy controls. Adiponectin and resistin serum levels were measured using commercial ELISA kits. The extent of alcohol craving was obtained using the Obsessive Compulsive Drinking Scale (OCDS). Adiponectin and resistin serum levels were significantly elevated in patients with alcohol dependence at both dates (admission and after 1 week of treatment) compared to healthy controls. Adiponectin decreased significantly during the course of withdrawal (T=3.44, p=0.001) while resistin serum levels showed a slight increase (T=-1.83, p=0.071). In a multivariate approach the extent of alcohol craving was significantly associated with adiponectin but not with resistin serum levels in male patients (Beta=-0.255, p=0.025). Results for female patients were not significant. Our findings provide first evidence for an alteration of the adipocytokines adiponectin and resistin during alcohol withdrawal. Furthermore, adiponectin may be involved in the neurobiology of alcohol craving, possibly via its effects on the hypothalamic circuits.